📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / President's Secretariat
Religion
Mysuru Dasara Begins Amid Drought, Celebrations Unfazed
✍️ The Hindu
🗓 11 Oct 2026, 01:37 AM
👁 16
The annual Mysuru Dasara festival kicked off today despite a severe drought affecting Karnataka, with organizers assuring that the celebrations will proceed as planned.
Mysuru, Karnataka – The city’s iconic Dasara festivities commenced today, marking the start of a ten-day celebration that draws millions of visitors each year. The festival, known for its elaborate processions, cultural performances and the historic torchlight parade, traditionally showcases the region’s heritage and religious fervor.
A prolonged drought has strained water supplies across Karnataka, prompting concerns about the impact on large public gatherings. State officials, however, emphasized that contingency plans are in place, including water rationing for non‑essential uses and the use of tankers to meet the needs of the event venues.
Despite the climatic challenges, the opening ceremonies proceeded with the customary royal procession, traditional music, and the lighting of the Dasara torch. Organisers assured the public that the full schedule of events – from folk dances to the grand parade of decorated elephants – will continue without interruption, aiming to preserve the cultural spirit of the festival.
A prolonged drought has strained water supplies across Karnataka, prompting concerns about the impact on large public gatherings. State officials, however, emphasized that contingency plans are in place, including water rationing for non‑essential uses and the use of tankers to meet the needs of the event venues.
Despite the climatic challenges, the opening ceremonies proceeded with the customary royal procession, traditional music, and the lighting of the Dasara torch. Organisers assured the public that the full schedule of events – from folk dances to the grand parade of decorated elephants – will continue without interruption, aiming to preserve the cultural spirit of the festival.